The Union Cabinet is poised to approve a ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund (MDF) to boost India’s shipping sector. Proposed by the Ministry of Shipping, this fund aims to finance ship acquisitions and increase the share of Indian-flagged vessels in global freight to 20% by 2047, enhancing maritime security.
Nigeria has officially endorsed amendments to eight codes of the Maritime Labour Convention (MLC) 2006, enhancing protections for seafarers. These changes recognize seafarers as essential workers and improve their working conditions. This endorsement, discussed at the ILO Special Tripartite Committee Meeting in Geneva, reflects Nigeria’s commitment to international maritime standards.
CMA CGM Group has officially transferred the CMA CGM Vitoria to the Indian registry, supporting India’s international shipping ambitions. This move requires an Indian crew and classification, aligning with India’s goals to enhance shipping operations and expand its shipbuilding industry. CMA CGM plans to register more vessels in India soon.
The “Revive Our Ocean” initiative, launched by Dynamic Planet and National Geographic, aims to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030. Focusing initially on countries like Britain, Greece, and Mexico, it promotes marine protected areas (MPAs) to combat overfishing and climate issues, highlighting their economic benefits for local communities.
The Directorate General of Shipping and the Company of Master Mariners of India have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance maritime documentation. This collaboration will improve casualty data validation and reporting, fostering transparency and better decision-making in the maritime sector, ultimately raising operational standards in India.
Maharashtra Ports Minister Nitesh Rane announced that Mumbai will seek a detailed project report (DPR) for a water metro, inspired by Kochi’s successful model. Expected by month’s end, the project aims to relieve road congestion and enhance urban transport with battery-powered ferries, connecting key areas and boosting local tourism.
With just four days until the Vizhinjam International Seaport’s commissioning, the Kerala Maritime Board plans to upgrade the adjacent minor port through a public-private partnership. Pending state government approval, redevelopment aims to enhance capacity for small and mid-sized ships, integrating it further into regional logistics and ferry services.
Concerns are escalating over the handover of Chattogram’s New Investor Container Terminal to a foreign operator, initially promoted by the previous Awami League government. Hafen workers and political groups fear job losses and economic repercussions. Despite the interim government’s insistence on improved efficiency, local opposition is intensifying as upcoming reviews loom.
Vision Marine Technologies has expanded into all-electric boats, unveiling the V24 and V30 pontoon models. The V24 seats 12 passengers with a range of 40 nautical miles, while the V30 accommodates 15 and offers a sporty design. Both feature innovative E-Motion technology, reaching up to 90 nautical miles.
Female seafarers are a small minority in the maritime workforce, but there has been a 45% increase in women pursuing careers at sea in the past decade. Challenges include workplace culture, career advancement, and support systems. Sailors’ Society offers specific support through a female helpline and Peer-to-Peer Support Group to address these issues.
The University of Victoria has partnered with the Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies to establish the BC Marine Energy and Decarbonization Hub. This initiative aims to advance renewable marine energy technologies, support local companies, and promote decarbonization in British Columbia, contributing to job creation and clean energy solutions for coastal communities.
On April 25, 2025, the container vessel KMTC Surabaya collided with the bulk carrier Glengyle on the Saigon–Vung Tau waterway in Vietnam, resulting in significant damage and an oil spill into the Long Tau River. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and shipping operations remained unaffected.
The Union Budget’s revamped Ship Building Financial Assistance Policy and the ₹25,000 crore Maritime Development Fund have passed the Expenditure Finance Committee review, awaiting Cabinet approval. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the fund to enhance competitiveness in the maritime industry, including significant government contributions and updated shipbuilding assistance schemes.
Vadhavan Port in Maharashtra’s Palghar district has secured agreements worth ₹57 billion for its upcoming facility. With a total investment of ₹760 billion, the port aims to become India’s 13th largest container port, featuring specialized terminals for liquid cargo and chemicals, enhancing India’s global maritime trade capabilities.
The Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port Authority plans to develop a major barge terminal on Balagarh Island to alleviate traffic congestion in Kolkata. Projected to handle 2.7 million tonnes of cargo annually, this initiative aims to enhance logistical operations and improve connectivity for northern regions, benefiting local economies.
